The Football Forecast

Dave Whelan statue unveiled

Dave Whelan has been Wigan Athletic owner for 21 years and during his time at the club he has upgraded the stadium substantially, won one FA Cup, two League One titles, one League Two title and one Football League Trophy.

Dave is a massive figure at the club and always will be. Wigan have had plenty of different managers under his reign such as current one, Warren Joyce, Gary Caldwell, Malky Mackay, Uwe Rosler, Owen Coyle, Roberto Martinez, Steve Bruce, Chris Hutchings, Paul Jewell, Bruce Rioch, John Benson, Ray Mathias and John Deehan. Under Dave, Paul Jewell has had the longest reign, taking charge between 2001-2007 with great success, guiding the club to the top division twice and taking them to the League Cup final in 2006.

I think Dave Whelan really deserved his statue, after everything he has done for the club and the town. This Dave Whelan statue was planned for a while by David Shape, his grandson, and the family. Dave Whelan has known about it for a while and couldn’t wait for it and the day finally came and Mr Whelan was delighted. The statue was unveiled on the 24th of November, the date of his birthday.

Roberto Martinez ex-Latics manager and player, said “What Mr Whelan did with Wigan as a town and football club is inspiring”. Dave Whelan said himself “I’m really over the moon with the statue”. What a way to celebrate your 80th birthday, one Dave Whelan will always remember.